So as someone else experienced, when I brought my Jeep to the dealer to replace the metal clamp on my rear driveshaft, they told me it's not serviceable and requires A NEW DRIVESHAFT! (Which, they won't warranty because they say it was damaged - that they clearly don't just fly off.) This is the clamp holding that black accordian looking plastic boot over the slip yoke.

So, what do you all suggest? I have zip ties on it now which are actually holding well! It's the forward clamp, so I assume any grease in there is not up top due to gravity. I noticed the bent clamp when I did it while on the trail. I removed the clamp myself and initially put duct tape over it, but that flew off on the way home. I then put the zip ties on. I NEVER saw any grease anywhere in the area. The boot itself is in tact.

So, should I just get a hose cllamp on there instead? Should I try and find these special clamps on line? will the unbalanced weight of a hose clamp affect anything?

Suggestions?

 

I have been running without the clamp or the boot for a little over half a year with no issue, yet. But, most people eventually solve it by getting an aftermarket DS.

 

My rear one ripped off on the trail 2 years ago, and the front ripped off several months ago. I will probably eventually get new drive shafts, but there have been no ill effects so far.

Ripp it off and go! Or if the zip ties are working, can't hurt, and may help so your good imo.

 

I've had a simliar experience with my front shaft. Tore the boot on something, took to dealer for repair and was informed "not serviceable" and had to replace

I just replaced it and have the old one in the garage. I was going to take it to a local driveline shop and see if the can''t just replace the boot worse case, it's a good spare.

 

I'm not sure where I got them, but I have some stainless steel "zip ties". I'd think they would be stronger than the nylon ones. I'd put two of those on it, rotated 180 from each other to eliminate any balance issues, and run it 'til it puked.

I think the application for the metal ties was to hold on header wrap, whereas a nylon tie would just melt. you might be able to find them at your local speed shop.

 

The zip ties will be fine. The boot is just there to hold in the grease from spraying all over the underside. So, as long as that isn't damaged, the zip ties will just hold the boot shut.

I replaced my front DS after the boot was torn. I thought about getting hte stock one fixed at the local driveline place, but after I took it off and compare it to the new aftermarket one, I don't think there's a reason to do that. (famous last words).

 

its been a while since I've been under mine, but couldn't you just use a hose clamp?

 

The "screw" on a hose clamp, might be large enough to cause balance issues, plus if it comes off at speed, it would make a pretty dangerous projectile.

 

do it right, new drive shaft. I would go with an OE replacement from JE reel, Alternatively, there are always stock drive shafts available her in the for sale section.
The stock drive shafts are crap.

 

Do you feel like parting with two of those steel zip ties?

I'll look for replacements. Also, I have a client that makes CV Joints and boots. I'm going to email them a pic and see if the have the correct bracket and installation tool for me.

The boot is fine. The zip ties have been on there for a month and over 1,500 miles without issue.

Yes, I agree, a simple hose clamp might throw it out of balance.

How much are new driveshafts for the rear on an Unlimited? And for a 2.5" coil lift (going in tomorrow!!!) why do I need one? what's their advantate?